Distributed Flash Array Illumination Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable camera systems, such as smartphones, often suffer from stark shadows and uneven illumination due to their small, spot-like flash sources, which are not suitable for uniform lighting of curved surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A distributed flash array system that includes a mountable, two-dimensional array of light emitting points or optical foci capable of emitting light from multiple areas, simulating a continuous light source to provide more uniform illumination by extending the flash view angle and improving light distribution across a scene.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single spotlight flash source is used in portable camera systems, then the device size is kept small and simple, but the illumination becomes uneven with stark shadows and reflections
Solution Approach 1:
The flash source is divided into multiple discrete light emitting points arranged in a distributed array pattern (e.g., 2x2, 3x3, or more points). Each point acts as an independent illumination source, and their combined effect creates uniform distributed lighting across the scene, eliminating the stark shadows produced by a single spotlight source.
Solution Approach 2:
The flash array transitions from a single-point (0D) or linear (1D) source to a two-dimensional distributed array of light emitting points. This dimensional expansion allows light to be emitted from multiple spatial locations simultaneously, creating uniform illumination coverage and softening shadows through multi-angle lighting.
2Illumination intensity
If a distributed array of light emitting points is used, then illumination uniformity is improved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the flash array emit light with locally optimized characteristics. The distributed points can be selectively activated or adjusted in intensity based on local illumination requirements, allowing uniform overall illumination while maintaining compact array dimensions through regional light emission control.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a single flash source is used, then the device structure remains simple, but shadows and reflections are pronounced
Solution Approach 1:
The flash system is segmented into multiple spatially distributed light emitting points. This segmentation allows light to reach the subject from multiple angles simultaneously, diffusing harsh shadows and reducing specular reflections that occur with single-point illumination, while keeping each individual emitting point simple in structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The distributed flash array enhances illumination uniformity, reducing shadows and reflections, and allows for more professional-grade portrait photography with improved light texture and color simulation, even on curved surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a distributed array of light emitting optical foci optically coupled to the light gathering layer wherein the distributed array gathers light from the light gathering layer
Implementation Method 2
a distributed array of light emitting points... the distributed array capable of light emission from a plurality of areas
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed light source couple-able to a mobile device, comprising, a distributed array of light emitting points and a mount connected to the distributed array and couple-able to the mobile device, the distributed array capable of light emission from a plurality of areas.